Navigating Job Loss During Pregnancy in Texas

When you’re pregnant, a notification from HR or a sudden meeting with your supervisor can change everything. In an instant, you may be left dealing with the stress of an unplanned pregnancy while also worrying about how you’ll pay for medical care and make ends meet.

In the guide below, we will explore the immediate steps you should take if you’re pregnant and lost your job, the federal laws that protect you against discrimination and the various benefits and resources available to you. We will also discuss your pregnancy options — including parenting and adoption — so you can decide what’s best for your future.

If you need someone to talk to during this challenging time, we can help. Fill out our form or call 1-800-ADOPTION to speak with one of our unbiased pregnancy counselors.

What If I’m Pregnant and Lost My Job in Texas?

Losing your job while pregnant can feel overwhelming — the moments afterward are often a blur of fear and frustration. But even if it feels like the floor has dropped out from under you, it’s important to know that legal and financial help may be available.

First, take one practical step that can protect you later: Request a copy of your personnel file and a written termination notice as soon as possible. These documents can be extremely important if you decide to file for unemployment or pursue a discrimination claim.

Next, look at support options that can provide immediate relief while you figure out what comes next. When you’re unemployed and pregnant, this could include unemployment benefits, state-funded insurance, and other federal or local programs. Some women also consider adoption, which may include help with certain pregnancy-related living expenses.

Can I Be Fired for Being Pregnant in Texas?

Texas is an at-will employment state, which means an employer can terminate an employee at any time for almost any reason. However, at-will employment does not override pregnancy discrimination laws.

In the U.S., It is illegal to be fired for:

• Being pregnant

• A past pregnancy

• A potential pregnancy

• A medical condition related to pregnancy or childbirth

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces four federal laws that can protect applicants and employees who are pregnant:

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it illegal for covered employers to fire you, refuse to hire you or treat you unfairly at work because you are pregnant. This law ensures that pregnancy is treated like any other temporary disability.

Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act protects employees from disability discrimination and requires employers to offer reasonable accommodations. While pregnancy alone isn’t a disability, pregnancy-related complications like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes may be covered.

Family Medical Leave Act

In 1993, Congress passed the Family Medical Leave Act, giving eligible employees of covered employers the right to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specific family and medical reasons. You can take up to 12 weeks of leave for the birth of a child without the fear of losing your job as long as you and your employer meet certain requirements.

Pregnant Workers Fairness Act

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act helps protect pregnant employees by requiring covered employers to provide reasonable accommodations when needed. These may include extra bathroom breaks, a chair to sit in or modified duties.

What Are My Legal Rights if I’m Pregnant and Fired From Work in Texas?

If you believe you were pregnant and fired because of your pregnancy, you may be able to take legal action. While employers often cite "at-will" status as a loophole, the law is clear regarding protected classes. If you were pregnant and fired from work and the timing of your termination happened immediately after you disclosed your pregnancy, you may have a strong case.

It is important to know that you do not need a lawyer to begin this process. If you were pregnant and fired from your job because of your pregnancy, you can file a formal charge of discrimination with the EEOC or the Texas Workforce Commission’s Civil Rights Division at no cost. These agencies investigate claims, and you are not required to have an attorney to file a charge.

Can I Get Unemployment While Pregnant in Texas?

Yes, you may qualify for unemployment as a pregnant mother in Texas if you lost your job through no fault of your own.

To collect unemployment, you must be actively applying for jobs and able to work. If you are pregnant and can’t work due to physical limitations or a doctor’s recommendation, you may not qualify for unemployment. You will likely need to explore other forms of assistance instead.

How Do I Get Medical Care if I’m Pregnant and Uninsured in Texas?

Losing your health insurance along with your job is one of the most immediate concerns for an expectant parent. In Texas, you can get medical care through several channels:

• Medicaid: This is the primary source of coverage for those with limited income. It covers prenatal visits, labor, delivery and postpartum care for up to 12 months.

• Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Perinatal: If you earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance, CHIP Perinatal can help cover prenatal care and other pregnancy-related health services.

• Private Insurance: Losing your job is a qualifying life event that lets you enroll in a plan through Healthcare.gov outside of the normal open enrollment window — but only if you had health insurance coverage before you lost your job. If you were uninsured before being fired, you may need to wait for the yearly open enrollment period.

Financial Help for Pregnant Women in Texas

You can support yourself if you’re pregnant and can’t work by accessing local and federal assistance programs. Dialing 2-1-1 in Texas or visiting the 211 Texas website is the fastest way to find local organizations that provide immediate assistance.

Other resources include:

• Women, Infants and Children: Provides nutritious food, breastfeeding support and healthcare referrals

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: Offers monthly benefits to help you buy groceries

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families: Provides monthly cash payments to help low-income families pay for basic needs

• Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program: Offers emergency help with electricity or gas bills

What Are My Options if I’m Pregnant and Unemployed in Texas?

You deserve to understand all of your options without feeling judged or pressured. If you’re pregnant and unemployed in Texas, these are the three paths available to you:

Is Adoption Free if I’m Pregnant and Unemployed?

If you can’t afford to raise a baby right now, you should know that adoption is 100% free for you. In fact, Texas law allows the adoptive family you choose to provide financial assistance through a licensed agency to ensure you’re safe and healthy.

Your adoption specialist can coordinate payments for:

• Rent and utilities

• Groceries and food

• Transportation to medical appointments

• Maternity clothing

• Medical bills and legal representation

Considering Adoption After Job Loss? Support Is Available

You do not have to let a job loss define your future or the future of your child. It is possible to move forward with a plan that prioritizes your health and stability for your baby.

To learn more about your rights, your options and the financial assistance that may be available, contact us today. We are here to help you take the next step forward.

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